The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has adjusted the arrival and examination times for candidates sitting the first session of the 2027 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
Under the new schedule, candidates are expected to arrive at their designated Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres by 7:30 a.m., instead of the earlier 6:30 a.m. reporting time.
The examination will commence at 8:30 a.m. and end at 10:30 a.m.
JAMB announced the adjustment in its weekly bulletin issued in Abuja, explaining that the decision was aimed at addressing safety and logistical challenges associated with very early-morning journeys to examination centres.
The board said the concern was particularly significant for candidates travelling long distances, many of whom may be required to leave their homes before dawn to meet the previous reporting time.
According to JAMB, the decision followed deliberations at its 2026 Management and IT Retreat held in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, from September 6 to 11.
The retreat considered concerns raised by members of the public about the difficulties and safety risks candidates could face while travelling in the early hours of the morning.
JAMB said the revised arrival time would improve candidates’ safety and convenience while potentially reducing absenteeism caused by difficulties associated with the earlier schedule.
The board, however, noted that other examination sessions would retain their established scheduling arrangements.
The retreat brought together JAMB management, state coordinators, heads of outstation offices and other stakeholders to review measures for improving the efficiency, safety, credibility and overall candidate experience of the UTME.
Although the 2027 UTME is still months away, JAMB said preparations had commenced, with the board working to apply lessons from previous examinations and implement decisions reached during the retreat.
It said the overall objective was to deliver a more efficient, seamless and candidate-friendly examination.
Candidates and members of the public were advised to take note of the adjustment and await further official communication on the complete 2027 UTME timetable and other arrangements.
